During the Milano Cortina Games, American-born skier Eileen Gu achieved two silver medals, making her the most decorated female Olympic freestyle skier. Following her successes, a controversial exchange occurred when AFP reporter John Weaver asked Gu if she viewed her performance as a failure for not winning gold in the big air event. This question sparked significant backlash on social media, raising discussions about expectations placed on athletes, especially those with dual-nationality backgrounds like Gu, who competes for China despite her American roots.

In her response, Gu maintained her poise, emphasizing her achievements and expressing gratitude for the opportunity to compete. Despite the criticism aimed at Weaver for his line of questioning, Gu's performance remains celebrated, highlighting her as a key figure in freestyle skiing and a role model for young athletes navigating the complexities of representation in sports.

This incident sheds light on the challenges faced by athletes in the public eye, particularly when they fulfill expectations stemming from their cultural and national identities. As Gu continues to break records in the sport, her actions and the media's portrayal of her will likely influence conversations about identity, pressure, and the nuanced expectations surrounding Olympic athletes.